Haldwani, Uttarakhand, Feb. 8: Tensions escalated in the Haldwani region of Nainital district on Thursday evening after authorities demolished a madrasa and an underground mosque-like structure in the Banbhulpura area.
Following the violence, curfew has been enforced and shoot-at-sight directives implemented. The madrasa, said to be situated on government land in Banbhulpura, was deemed illegal, prompting its demolition. However, upon arrival of authorities for the demolition, people confronted them, hurling stones. Over 50 police officers sustained injuries during the clashes and have been evacuated for medical attention at a nearby hospital.
In response to the unrest in Banbhulpura, the district administration has enforced a curfew and blocked all access roads. Additionally, the state government has granted authorization for law enforcement to employ lethal force against disruptive individuals, including issuing shoot-at-sight orders.
Amidst the escalating tension in the state, former Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat expressed his apprehension regarding the current situation and urged the public to uphold peace and unity.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called for an urgent meeting to assess the intensifying situation. Chief Secretary Radha Raturi, Director General of Police Uttarakhand Abhinav Kumar, and ADG (Law and Order) AP Anshuman attended the session. Dhami emphasized that the administration’s actions were in compliance with a court directive, as they initiated an anti-encroachment operation in the region.
SSP Prahlad Meena stated that the demolition of the madrasa occurred following prior notification to the inhabitants. He mentioned that the demolition was executed in the presence of Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay, City Magistrate Richa Singh, and SDM Paritosh Verma.
At present, a curfew has been imposed in Haldwani starting from 9 PM until further notice. Residents are urged to remain indoors, and all shops and businesses are instructed to suspend operations until further directives are issued.
